You are sitting at the table, and your plate is full. It smells so good! But wait…
Key idea
Wait to start eating until everyone has food, or until the cook or a grown-up says to begin.
Why it works
A meal together is about being together. Waiting shows we are eating with our family, not just eating.
Worked example: Let's practice
Everyone has food. Mom, who cooked, says, “Let's eat!” What can Sam do?
- Everyone is served.
- The cook said to begin.
- Now Sam can start.
Answer: Sam starts to eat.
Common mistake
Starting to eat the moment your plate arrives. Wait until everyone has food, or until a grown-up says to begin.
Customs differ. Families start meals in different ways. Some say a few words or a blessing; some say “Let's eat!”; some just begin together. When you eat at a friend's house, wait quietly and follow their family's way.
For the grown-up. Choose a simple signal that starts your family's meal, and use it every time. If a young child can't wait long, serve them last-but-quickly or let them help bring dishes so the wait is short.